Singing Coach AI
The Heart of My Head Is an Animal
Released in 2011, "Lakehouse" is a definitive track from the Icelandic group Of Monsters and Men. It captures that quintessential "stomp-and-holler" indie-folk energy, combining acoustic textures with a driving marching band rhythm. Unlike a power ballad, the challenge here isn't range—it's texture and timing.
Singers often struggle with the duality of the track. It starts small and intimate, requiring a conversational tone, but builds into a massive, shouting chorus. You need to manage your energy reserves to ensure you don't run out of breath before the final crescendo.
Phase 1: The Conversational Verse
The song opens in D Major. Whether you are singing Nanna's part or Ragnar's, the approach is the same: "straight tone." Avoid using heavy vibrato here.
The Technique: Think of this less as singing and more as melodic speaking. Keep the vowels narrow and forward. The lyrics "I miss the comfort of this house" should feel intimate, as if you are telling a secret to someone sitting right next to you.
Phase 2: The "La La La" Chorus
This is the signature Of Monsters and Men sound. The melody lifts, and the texture thickens. The challenge here is resonance.
- Open Throat: For the "La la la" sections, drop your jaw slightly. If you smile too wide, the sound becomes thin and nasal. You want a "warmer" sound.
- Dynamics: Step up from mezzo-piano to forte here. This contrast is what gives the song its emotional lift.
Phase 3: The Gang Vocal Outro
The end of "Lakehouse" is a chaotic, beautiful build-up. In a studio, this is layered with dozens of tracks. Solo, you need to simulate this fullness.
Push your chest voice but keep it relaxed. Imagine you are singing around a campfire with twenty other people. The goal is unity and volume, not perfect operatic technique. Allow a little breathiness into the tone to match the indie aesthetic.